Arusha: Arusha National Park Safari with Canoeing Option

Introduction

Thinking about a safari that combines wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and a touch of adventure? We’ve looked into the Arusha National Park Safari with Canoeing Option offered by Eatl Tour & Safari Group, and it’s an experience packed with variety. From game drives amid lush forests and savannahs to walking safaris with armed rangers, this tour offers a balanced taste of what Tanzania’s wilderness has to offer.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the chance to see rare black-and-white colobus monkeys up close, the stunning views of Mount Meru, and the opportunity to extend your adventure with canoeing at Momella Lakes. Plus, the picnic lunch with panoramic scenery hits that sweet spot between comfort and authenticity. One thing to consider: this full-day tour involves early starts and some walking, so it’s best suited for travelers who are reasonably active. Overall, it’s an ideal choice for wildlife lovers eager for a well-rounded, immersive Tanzanian safari experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse ecosystems including forests, savannahs, lakes, and wetlands
• Multiple safari activities: game drives, walking safaris, and optional canoeing
• Wildlife highlights: giraffes, zebras, hippos, flamingos, and rare colobus monkeys
• Scenic picnic lunch with views of Mount Meru
• Expert guides and armed rangers ensure safety and insightful wildlife encounters
• Flexible add-on options allow personalized experiences like canoeing on Momella Lakes

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting the Day: Early Pick-Up and Briefing

Your adventure kicks off bright and early—likely before sunrise—when you’re collected from your Arusha hotel or lodge. The comfort of a private vehicle with a pop-up roof is a big plus, offering great vantage points for wildlife spotting and photography. The guide, who speaks fluent English, provides a quick safety briefing and explains what’s ahead, setting the tone for an informative day.

Scenic Drive to Arusha National Park

The drive itself is part of the charm. You’ll pass through local villages and coffee plantations, giving you a glimpse into Tanzanian daily life. The route offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially as you get closer to Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak. We loved the way the landscape transitions from farmland to lush forest, hinting at the park’s diverse ecosystems.

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Morning Game Drive: Wildlife and Birdwatching

Once inside Arusha National Park, your game drive begins. The park’s variety of habitats means you’re likely to see a broad range of wildlife. Expect to spot giraffes, zebras, buffalos, warthogs, and bushbucks, which are common sightings. What really sets this park apart is the chance to see the rare black-and-white colobus monkeys. Reviewers frequently mention these lively primates leaping between trees, providing fantastic photo moments.

Bird enthusiasts will enjoy spotting flamingos, crowned eagles, hornbills, and herons around the lakes and wetlands. The Momella Lakes, with their mirror-like reflections of Mount Meru, are a favorite photo spot and offer a peaceful backdrop to your wildlife observations. One reviewer noted, “The flamingos on the lakes were stunning, and seeing them so close was quite a treat.”

Serengeti Ndogo and Wildlife Spotlighting

A highlight of the morning is a stop at Serengeti Ndogo, an open grassland area where animals graze freely. It’s the perfect spot to witness herds of antelopes, zebras, and possibly elephants strolling across the plains. Guides often suggest that this is the best chance to see large herds in action—an experience that’s both relaxing and exhilarating.

Guided Walking Safari: Getting Closer to Nature

One of the tour’s unique features is the walking safari with an armed ranger. It’s a rare opportunity to explore on foot—getting closer to the smaller wildlife, plants, and ecosystem details you might miss from the vehicle. Travelers have appreciated the chance to learn about animal tracks, medicinal plants, and the balance of nature directly from their guide.

Reviewers have remarked, “Walking with the ranger made me feel like I was truly part of the environment—seeing zebras and giraffes from ground level was incredible.” The presence of an armed ranger ensures safety, so you can focus on the experience without concern.

Picnic Lunch with Panoramic Views

Around midday, you’ll stop for a well-earned picnic lunch at a designated spot within the park. The setting offers sensational views of Mount Meru and the surrounding landscapes, making the meal memorable. Many reviewers mention the quality of the packed lunch—fresh, tasty, and perfectly suited for a day outdoors. It’s a great chance to relax, refuel, and absorb the scenery.

Optional Canoeing at Momella Lakes

An optional extension is the canoeing experience on Momella Lakes. If pre-booked, this adds a fun water element to your safari. Paddling through calm waters, you’ll encounter hippos, flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl. Reviewers describe it as a peaceful, almost meditative activity, with excellent photo ops and a different perspective on the park’s wildlife. The small-group setup means you won’t be crowded, and the guide ensures safety throughout.

Afternoon Game Drive and Tululusia Waterfall

Back in the vehicle, you’ll enjoy a short afternoon game drive, with a possible stop at the hidden Tululusia Waterfall. The walk to the waterfall is short but refreshing, perfect for cooling off and snapping some last scenic photos. Spectacular views and birdwatching opportunities make this a peaceful wrap-up to your day.

Heading Back to Arusha

As the day winds down, you’ll return to Arusha, often arriving in the early evening. The drive back provides one last chance to reflect on the wildlife sightings and landscapes you’ve experienced. Many travelers appreciate the flexible timing, as the tour generally concludes with a comfortable ride back to your hotel.

What We Love About This Tour

Wildlife diversity: The chance to see both the big game and elusive primates makes this a well-rounded safari. The presence of rare monkeys adds a special touch.

Multiple activities: A blend of game drives, walking safaris, and optional canoeing makes every part of the day engaging. It’s more than just a typical vehicle-based safari.

Stunning scenery: Views of Mount Meru, the lakes, and waterfalls are breathtaking. The picnic lunch with mountain vistas is a highlight and adds a relaxing break.

Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides and armed rangers ensure safety and deepen your understanding of the park’s ecosystems.

Flexibility: You can choose to extend your day with canoeing, tailoring the experience to your interests.

Value for money: At $570 per person, considering the inclusions—private guide, park fees, walking safari, and optional activities—the tour offers excellent value for a comprehensive day in Arusha.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing: The tour starts early, so prepare for a long day. Early mornings mean cooler temperatures but also a higher chance for active wildlife sightings.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes are a must for walking safaris, along with sun protection—hat, sunscreen—and your camera to capture those wildlife moments.
• Weather: Check the forecast and dress accordingly—layers are often best to handle the changing temperatures.
• Group size: The tour is private, providing a personalized experience, which is ideal for those wanting a more intimate adventure.
• Age suitability: Not suited for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to the walking components.

The Sum Up

The Arusha National Park Safari with Canoeing Option from Eatl Tour & Safari Group offers a well-balanced day of wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and adventure. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want more than just a vehicle tour—those eager to walk, paddle, and get closer to nature. The mix of game drives, walking safaris, and optional water excursions makes it a flexible, engaging, and memorable experience.

If you’re seeking a comprehensive and authentic Tanzanian safari that covers the essentials while offering a few unique surprises, this tour is worth considering. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those keen on capturing stunning photos. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure and a good pair of shoes!

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a professional English-speaking guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off in Arusha, private 4×4 vehicle with a pop-up roof, park entry fees, walking safari with an armed ranger, game drives, bottled water, soft drinks, picnic lunch, and government taxes.

Can I extend the tour with additional activities?
Yes, you can opt to include the canoeing experience on Momella Lakes, but it must be booked in advance.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll likely see giraffes, zebras, buffalos, warthogs, bushbucks, and possibly leopards or elephants. The rare black-and-white colobus monkeys are a special highlight, along with water birds like flamingos.

Is the tour suitable for families?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with back problems or mobility issues due to walking and long vehicle rides.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience typically starts early in the morning and concludes in the evening, giving you plenty of time for wildlife sightings and scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Dress in layers to adapt to weather changes.

Is the tour private or group-based?
It’s a private tour, offering a more personalized experience.

What about lunch?
A picnic lunch is provided, usually with great views of Mount Meru and the park’s landscapes.

Can I see waterbirds and flamingos?
Absolutely. The lakes are a prime habitat for flamingos, pelicans, and herons, making for excellent birdwatching.

What is the best time of year for this safari?
While not explicitly stated, early mornings tend to be cooler and better for wildlife activity. Check local weather and park conditions before booking.

With its blend of wildlife, scenery, and adventure options, this tour offers a genuine taste of Tanzania’s natural beauty. Perfect for those wanting a full, authentic day in Arusha’s stunning landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: